Medical training therapy in lumbar syndromes

Chronic low back pain can be considered to be one of the most frequently tr eated and most costly diseases in modern industrial societies. Dysfunctions and imbalances of the spine-supporting muscles increase the risk of low ba ck pain. Consequently preventive treatment and rehabilitation have to aim a t preserving and restoring the full capacity of the spine-supporting muscle s as well as training coordination and spine-friendly behaviour. In additio n to various measures of pain therapy, physiotherapeutic treatment includin g neuro-physiotherapy, physical treatment (eg electrotherapy), balneotherap y and supportive behavioural training, medical rehabilitation therapy (MRT) ranks among the most effective ways of treating low back pain. MRT applies guidelines and methods of exercise methodology within medically indicated programmes of preventive treatment and rehabilitation. Various objectives o f MRT are outlined with special regard to the stages of MRT treatment, emph asizing positive adaptation of the neuro-muscular system in the course of r ehabilitation. Physicians are responsible for MRT diagnosis and control. Ta king into account the base disorder and the progress of therapy physiothera pists and the physicians in charge determine MRT objectives and treatment s trategies.